Arms race

The New Arms Race: NATO Missile Defense Versus Russian Missiles 

NATO is just at the beginning of the deployment of its European missile defense architecture; the first Aegis Ashore site is expected to be operational in 2016. But only two sites are planned. In truth, NATO needs a dozen or more such sites, a combination of the Aegis/SM-3 system and THAAD batteries. In addition, NATO should invest in defenses against advanced cruise missiles, such as that provided by the U.S. Patriot system and the German-Italian MEADS with broad applicability across Europe. Investments in advanced fighter aircraft such as the F-35 will contribute both to NATO’s defense against air breathing threats and to its counteroffensive potential. With no quick, cheap victory possible, Russia is unlikely to risk a confrontation with NATO.